Reduced torque valve cover lock assembly

ABSTRACT

A valve cover lock assembly for a pump having a fluid end module can include a ring adapted to couple to the module, an insert comprising a plurality of segments, and a cone adapted to couple with the insert, wherein the ring comprises a first coupler and the insert comprises a second coupler configured to couple with the first coupler, wherein the cone is configured to move one or more of the plurality of segments when the cone is moved, and wherein the first and second couplers are adapted to at least partially resist movement of the insert. A method of locking a valve cover can include coupling a ring to a valve cover opening, disposing an insert comprising a plurality of segments at least partially within the ring, coupling an actuator to the insert, and coupling the insert to the ring.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patentapplication No. 62180803 filed Jun. 17, 2016.

STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT

Not applicable.

REFERENCE TO APPENDIX

Not applicable.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Field of the Invention

The present disclosure relates generally to valves and more specificallyrelates to valve cover locks.

Description of the Related Art

Wellbores drilled through subsurface rock formations to extract oil andgas may be treated by pumping various types of fluids and/or othermaterials into the formations. Fluid pumping treatments can include, forexample, hydraulic fracturing, wherein fluid is pumped into theformation at pressures that exceed a fracture pressure of theformations. As another example, drilling mud can be pumped into or outof a wellbore or formation for purposes such as sealing off porous rocklayers, equalizing pressures, cooling drilling components and flushingout cuttings, among others. Other fluid treatments may include, forexample, pumping acid into the wellbore to dissolve minerals present inthe pore spaces of the formation. In conducting fluid pumping treatmentson one or more wells, pumping equipment can be used, which can includepumps (e.g., mud pumps, water pumps or other fluid pumps), connections,power sources, fluid ends, power ends, transmissions, motors, conduitsand other components of pumping systems. At least some pumpingequipment, such as pumps, can include parts or components that degradeover time during use, such as due to friction, temperature, pressure,exposure and the like, which can be referred to as wear components.

Referring now to FIG. 1, a drilling rig 1 for oil and gas operations maybe used to drill a wellbore 2 in a reservoir 3 from a surface location4, which may be or include a ground surface, a drilling platform, or anyother location outside of the wellbore 2 from which drilling may becontrolled. The drilling rig 1 can include a drill string 5 suspendedtherefrom, such as a drill string comprised of a continuous length ofpipe assembled from a series of relatively short tubing sections, ortubulars 6, connected to one another. The drill string 5 can include oneor more of many drilling tools, bottom hole assemblies or othercomponents for hydrocarbon exploration, such as a drill bit 7. In atleast some instances, drilling fluids 8 for supporting drillingoperations, such as water, mud, lubricants, water-based or oil-basedsuspensions of clays, chemicals, particulates, coolants, other materialsand/or combinations thereof, can be pumped into and/or out of a wellbore2 during drilling operations, e.g., for purposes such as those mentionedabove. For example, drilling fluids 8 can be pumped from location 4 downdrill string 5 and back up through an annulus 9 of wellbore 2. However,this need not be the case and other pumping configurations are possible.Accordingly, a drilling rig 1 can include one or more pumps, such as mudpump 10, for pumping drilling fluids.

As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, a conventional mud pump 10 can include apower end 12 and a fluid end 14. Power end 12 can be adapted to convertrotational movement from a motor or other power source (not shown)applied to one or more drive shafts 16 into linear movement or othermovement for operating fluid end 14. Fluid end 14 can include one ormore fluid end modules 18 having one or more inlets, or ports 20, andone or more outlets, or outlet ports 22, for routing drilling fluid,such as drilling mud, into and out of fluid end 14. Each module 18 caninclude one or more valves for drawing fluid through fluid end 14. Thevalves can be disposed within modules 18 and secured in place with valvecover locks 24 for supporting operation of the valves. More specificallyvalve cover locks 24 can be coupled to modules 18 for securing valvecovers 26 in place during pumping operations. Conventional valve coverlocks 24 can include a threaded ring 28 and a threaded valve pot cover30 for keeping a valve cover 26 in place during pumping operations.However, because mud pumps can operate at relatively high pressures, forexample up to 7500 pounds per square inch (PSI), valve cover locks 24should be able to withstand forces applied to valve cover 26 duringpumping. As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, conventional, threaded valve potcovers 30 typically are large enough in diameter to allow for removal ofvalve cover 26 upon removal of cover 30 from ring 28. As a result, arelatively large amount of torque can be required to tighten cover 30adequately to withstand the operating pressure of a mud pump. Forexample, for a pump expected to operate at approximately 7500 PSI, up toapproximately 8000 or 9000 foot-pounds (ft-lbs) of torque can be neededto properly tighten a conventional cover 30 sufficiently to counteractforces applied to valve cover 26 during preloading operations performedprior to general pumping operations. As such, torques of this magnitudemay not be feasible with equipment available at a typical well site and,thus, in at least some cases, conventional covers 30 may not be properlytightened prior to pumping operations.

As a result, the valve cover 26 can be subject to movement over time, orcovers 30 can back out over time, for example due to vibrations or otherforces experienced during pumping, which can result in reducedperformance of the pump. For example, a pump may not be able to operateat its intended working pressure or wear parts may wear more quickly dueto improper functioning of the valve resulting from improper placementor movement of valve cover 26. Regardless of whether conventional valvecover locks 24 are properly or otherwise adequately tightened, the valvepot covers 30 may be removed from time to time to service the pump, suchas, for example, for servicing or replacing wear parts such as poppet32, valve guide 34, or other pump components, such as gaskets,fasteners, springs and the like. Of course, the more time that may beneeded to remove or replace a valve cover lock during servicing, thegreater the down time may be for the pump.

Accordingly, a need exists in the art for a valve cover lock that can bemore easily coupled or uncoupled from a pump or fluid end, such as byrequiring relatively less torque for proper installation as compared toconventional locks of similar specifications, or by reducing an amountof time that may be needed to service a pump in a manner that may callfor removal of one or more valve cover locks. The disclosures andteachings herein are directed to systems and methods for improved valvecover lock structures.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

A valve cover lock assembly can include a ring having an opening and awall, such as a ring adapted to couple to a fluid end proximal to avalve cover opening, an insert comprising a plurality of segments, suchas an insert being adapted to be disposed at least partially within theopening of the ring, a cone adapted to be at least partially disposedwithin an opening in the insert, and a coupler adapted to couple one ormore other components of the assembly. In at least one embodiment, acoupler can include a cone nut adapted to couple with a valve cover. Thering can include one or more couplers and the insert can include one ormore couplers adapted to couple with the coupler(s) of the ring. Thecone can be adapted to move one or more of the plurality of segments,such as radially outwardly when the cone is moved in a directionrelative to the insert, which can include moving one or more of thesegments for coupling the insert and the ring, such as by coupling theirrespective couplers. A valve cover lock assembly can be adapted to atleast partially resist movement of the insert relative to the ring, suchas when in one or more locked positions, which can include being adaptedto at least partially resist movement of a valve cover during a pumpingoperation.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a drilling rig having a mud pump.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a conventional mud pump.

FIG. 3 is a perspective cross-sectional view of a portion of the fluidend of the mud pump of FIG. 2.

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of one of many embodiments of a valve coverlock assembly according to the disclosure.

FIG. 5 is a perspective exploded view of the valve cover lock assemblyof FIG. 4.

FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the valve cover lock assembly ofFIG. 5.

FIGS. 7A, 7B and 7C are perspective views of one of many embodiments ofa valve cover lock insert according to the disclosure.

FIGS. 8A, 8B, 8C and 8D are perspective cross-sectional views of a fluidend module having one of many embodiments of a valve cover lock assemblyaccording to the disclosure.

FIG. 9 is a detail view of a portion of FIG. 8B.

FIG. 10 is a detail view of a portion of FIG. 6.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The Figures described above and the written description of specificstructures and functions below are not presented to limit the scope ofwhat Applicant has invented or the scope of the appended claims. Rather,the Figures and written description are provided to teach any personskilled in the art to make and use the invention(s) for which patentprotection is sought. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that notall features of a commercial embodiment of the disclosure are describedor shown for the sake of clarity and understanding. Persons of skill inthis art will appreciate that the development of an actual commercialembodiment incorporating aspects of the present disclosure can requirenumerous implementation-specific decisions to achieve the developer'sultimate goal for the commercial embodiment(s). Suchimplementation-specific decisions may include, and likely are notlimited to, compliance with system-related, business-related,government-related and other constraints, which may vary by specificimplementation, location and from time to time. While a developer'sefforts might be complex and time-consuming in an absolute sense, suchefforts would be, nevertheless, a routine undertaking for those of skillin the art having the benefits of this disclosure.

It should be understood that the embodiment(s) disclosed and taughtherein are susceptible to numerous and various modifications andalternative forms. The use of a singular term, such as, but not limitedto, “a,” is not intended as limiting of the number of items. The use ofrelational terms, such as, but not limited to, “top,” “bottom,” “front,”“rear,” “left,” “right,” “upper,” “lower,” “down,” “up,” “side,”“first,” “second,” “inlet,” “outlet” and the like are used in thewritten description for clarity in specific reference to the Figures andare not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure or the appendedclaims unless otherwise indicated. The terms “couple,” “coupled,”“coupling,” “coupler,” and like terms are used broadly herein and caninclude any method or device for securing, binding, bonding, fastening,attaching, joining, inserting therein, forming thereon or therein,communicating, or otherwise associating, for example, mechanically,magnetically, electrically, chemically, operably, directly or indirectlywith intermediate elements, one or more pieces of members together andcan further include without limitation integrally forming one memberwith another in a unity fashion. The coupling can occur in anydirection, including rotationally. The terms “include” and “such as” areillustrative and not limitative, and the word “can” means “can, but neednot” unless otherwise indicated. The term “end” can, but need not, be orinclude a terminal end unless otherwise indicated. Notwithstanding anyother language in the present disclosure, the embodiment(s) shown in thedrawings are examples presented for purposes of illustration andexplanation and are not the only embodiments of the subject(s) hereof.

Applicant has created systems and methods for improving valve coverlocks and equipment having one or more valve cover locks, which caninclude, for example, reducing the time and equipment that may berequired to install or remove a valve cover lock, enabling installationor removal of a valve cover lock using relatively less torque, providingfor improved preloading of a fluid end, and/or improving the structuralintegrity of a valve system. In at least one embodiment, a system forlocking a valve cover can include a plurality of components for keepinga valve cover in place during pumping operations, such as a ring forcoupling the system to a fluid end module and a cover or insert forcoupling to the ring and resisting force applied to the valve coverduring pumping operations, whether directly or indirectly. A system caninclude an actuator for at least partially supporting coupling of aninsert to a ring. A ring can be any shape or size, such as circular,round, polygonal or another shape, and can be annular or otherwise canhave one or more openings therein or there through, such as a centrallongitudinal opening. A ring can be adapted for coupling with one ormore other components of the system and for communicating with at leasta portion of a pump (e.g., a mud pump), such as an opening in a fluidend module. An insert can be adapted for coupling with a ring for atleast partially sealing an opening, which can include applying force toa valve cover or resisting force on a valve cover. For instance, asystem for locking a valve cover, such as a valve cover lock assembly,can be coupled to a fluid end of a mud pump (e.g., to a fluid endmodule), and adapted for keeping a valve cover in a proper position forsupporting pumping operations, as described in further detail withreference to the Figures.

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of one of many embodiments of a valve coverlock assembly 100 according to the disclosure. FIG. 5 is a perspectiveexploded view of the valve cover lock assembly 100 of FIG. 4. FIG. 6 isa cross-sectional view of the valve cover lock assembly 100 of FIG. 5.FIGS. 7A, 7B and 7C are perspective views of one of many embodiments ofa valve cover lock insert 104 according to the disclosure. FIGS. 8A, 8B,8C and 8D are perspective cross-sectional views of a fluid end module300 having one of many embodiments of a valve cover lock assembly 100according to the disclosure. FIG. 9 is a detail view of a portion ofFIG. 8B. FIG. 10 is a detail view of a portion of FIG. 6. FIGS. 4-10will be described in conjunction with one another. A system for lockinga valve cover, or valve cover lock assembly 100, can include a ring 102and an insert 104 for coupling a valve cover 106 to a fluid end module300, such as for selectively locking a valve cover 106 in place relativeto module 300. Insert 104 can be adapted to couple to ring 102, and avalve cover lock assembly 100 can include an actuator, such as a cone108, for supporting coupling and uncoupling of insert 104 and ring 102,whether separately or in combination with one or more other componentsof a pump system. Ring 102 can be adapted for coupling to a mud pump orportion thereof, such as to module 300 or another component of a pumpfluid end, for supporting, sealing, or capping one or more fluid flowpaths, bores or openings, such as flow path 110 or valve cover opening112. A ring 102 can have any size or shape required by a particularapplication, and can but need not be annular. As shown in FIGS. 4-6 forillustrative purposes, ring 102 can be round or circular, but need notbe, and alternatively ring 102 can be another shape such as triangular,square or otherwise polygonal. Ring 102 can include one or moreopenings, such as a central longitudinal opening 114, for communicatingwith valve cover opening 112 and for housing at least a portion of oneor more other components of assembly 100. Ring 102 can have a first end102 a for coupling with a module 300 and a second and 102 b, such as alongitudinally opposite end. Ring 102 can be adapted to couple withmodule 300 in any manner required or desired for an application orembodiment, which can, but need not, include being adapted to couplewith one or more fasteners 116, such as screws, bolts, studs, or othercouplers. Alternatively, one or more fasteners 116 can be absent andring 102 can be otherwise coupled to module 300, such as by welding orby being formed integrally therewith, in whole or in part.

Ring 102 can, but need not, include one or more other openings or holes,such as access ports 118, for supporting coupling and uncoupling ring102 or one or more other components of assembly 100. Ring 102 caninclude an interior wall 120 having one or more couplers 122 forcoupling with one or more other components of the system, as furtherdiscussed below. In at least one embodiment, which is but one of many,coupler 122 can be or include one or more male couplers 122 a and/or oneor more female couplers 122 b, which can, but need not, be or include aseries or collection of extensions and grooves. In at least oneembodiment, opening 114 can be arranged for allowing one or more othercomponents of the system to be disposed at least partially therein orthere through, which can include having a dimension or diametersufficient to allow a valve cover 106 to pass through ring 102 and into(or out of) valve cover opening 112, which can be any dimension ordiameter appropriate for a valve cover or fluid pump at hand. Opening114 can, but need not, be uniform along its length and can, but neednot, be equal to or greater than valve cover opening 112 in size. In atleast one embodiment, opening 114 can be of any size sufficient to allowone or more other components of a pump or fluid end to be installed orremoved through ring 102, such as, for example, a valve cover stud 124,a valve guide 126, or a valve poppet 128, whether separately or incombination.

Insert 104 can include a first end 104 a for supporting (directly orindirectly) valve cover 106 in one or more positions, such as in aninstalled position, and a second end 104 b, such as a longitudinallyopposite end. As further described below, first end 104 a of insert 104can be disposed against valve cover 106 and adapted to at leastpartially resist movement of valve cover 106, such as when valve cover106 is installed in module 300, or seated with valve cover opening 112,and assembly 100 is in a locked position. Insert 104 can have aninterior wall 130 for cooperating with cone 108, an exterior wall 132for cooperating with interior wall 120 of ring 102, and an opening 134there through. Exterior wall 132 can be adapted for coupling withinterior wall 120 of ring 102 and can include one or more couplers, suchas one or more male couplers 136 a and one or more female couplers 136b, separately or in combination. In at least one embodiment, interiorwall 130 of insert 104 can be angled or sloped from one end of insert104 to another, or along a lesser portion, which can include having aninterior dimension or characteristic, such as a diameter orcross-sectional area, that varies or changes along a length of opening134. Interior wall 134 can, but need not, include one or more steps 138,such as angled transitions between two or more sections or portions ofwall 134. Alternatively, step(s) 138 can be absent and wall 134 can beof a smooth taper, in whole or in part.

Insert 104 can include a plurality of segments 140, which can be orinclude any number of segments, such as 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 . . .n segments, where n can be a number up to and including 1000, or even10,000 (or more). Segments 140 can collectively form interior wall 130and exterior wall 132 of insert 104, which walls can, but need not, besolid or continuous, separately or in combination, in whole or in part.In at least one embodiment, walls 130 and 132 can be continuous wheninsert 104 is in one or more positions and can be segmented when insert104 is in one or more other positions. For example, insert 104 can havea fully retracted position, such as a position wherein 104 may have aminimum external dimension or diameter, a fully expanded position, suchas a position where an insert 104 may have a maximum external dimensionor diameter, which dimensions can be any dimensions according to aparticular application at hand, and one or more interim positionsbetween the fully expanded and fully retracted positions. As anotherexample, a fully expanded position can include a position wherein insert104 may be coupled to ring 102, regardless of whether insert 104 may be“fully” retracted in a physical sense. In a fully retracted position,two or more segments 140 of insert 104 can be disposed adjacently to oneanother, which can, but need not, include being wholly or partially incontact with one another. However, this need not be the case, and in atleast one embodiment, two or more segments 140 can have a gap 142 therebetween when insert 104 is in a fully retracted (or other) position.

In at least one embodiment, which is but one of many, insert 104 can besized for fitting within opening 114 of ring 102 when in one or moreretracted or partially expanded positions, which can include one or moreunlocked positions, and for having an external dimension greater than adimension, such as a minimum internal dimension, of opening 114 when inone or more partially expanded or fully expanded positions, which caninclude one or more locked or otherwise coupled positions. Insert 104can, but need not, include one or more retainers 144, such as a spring,elastic band, or other biasing device, for holding segments 140 in oneor more positions relative to one another, which can include biasingsegments 140 radially inwardly toward a retracted or fully retractedposition. One or more segments 140 of insert 104 can, but need not,include one or more couplers 146 a, 146 b (collectively, couplers 146)for movably coupling adjacent segments to one another when segments 140are in one or more positions. For example, in at least one embodiment,couplers 146 can include one or more male couplers, such dowels or otherextensions, and one or more female couplers, such as holes or openings,for receiving at least a portion of a corresponding male coupler of anadjacent or next segment 140. For instance, two or more adjacentsegments 140 can include a combination of dowels and correspondingopenings having a clearance or other fit there between for allowing thesegments to move relative to one another during actuation of insert 104,as further described below. Each segment 140 can include any number ofmale couplers and/or female couplers 146, separately or in combination,or alternatively couplers 146 can be absent from one or more segments(including all segments) of insert 104.

Cone 108 can include a first end 108 a and a second end 108 b and canhave one or more openings, such as a central longitudinal opening 148,for cooperating with one or more other components of the system, suchas, for example, for coupling with a valve cover 106, valve cover stud124, or a cone nut 150 for coupling cone 108 to another component of thesystem. Cone 108 can have an interior wall 147 and an exterior wall 149,which can be configured for cooperating with interior wall 130 of insert104, such as during actuation of assembly 100. For example, exteriorwall 149 of cone 108 can be angled or sloped from one and of insert 104to another (or otherwise along at least a portion of its length), whichcan include having one or more dimensions or other attributes, such as adiameter or cross-sectional area, that varies or changes along cone 108.Exterior wall 149 can, but need not, include one or more steps 151, suchas angled transitions, between two or more sections or portions thereof.Alternatively, step(s) 151 can be absent and wall 149 can be of a smoothtaper, in whole or in part. In at least one embodiment, exterior wall149 of cone 108 can have a size and shape similar to or the same as thatof interior wall 130 (or a portion thereof) of a corresponding insert104. Cone 108 can, but need not, be formed from a plurality of segments.Cone nut 150 can include a first end 150 a for coupling with a valvecover 106 and a second end 150 b for receiving rotational force from atool, such as a wrench, socket, driver or other apparatus, fortightening or loosening a fastener. For example, second end 150 b ofcone nut 150 can include a hex drive, square drive or other toolcoupler, such as a torx drive, separately or in combination, in whole orin part. In at least one embodiment, which is but one of many, at leasta portion of cone nut 150 can be disposed within opening 148 for freelyrotating relative to cone 108, such as by having a clearance fittherewith. Cone 108 can, but need not, include a cone nut retainer 152,such as a washer, ring, or other structure, for coupling cone nut 150 tocone 108. At least a portion of cone nut 150 can, but need not, extendfrom second end 108 b of cone 108, which can include being disposed atleast partially through retainer 152, such as through an opening 154.Retainer 152 can be coupled to cone 108 in any manner, such as by one ormore fasteners 156, or in another manner (e.g., welded), separately orin combination, in whole or in part. In at least one embodiment, conenut 150 can include threads adapted to couple with a valve cover stud124 or another threaded portion of a valve cover 106, but this need notbe the case, and alternatively, or collectively, cone nut 150 caninclude another type of coupler or structure for coupling cone 108 tovalve cover 106 during installation or use of assembly 100.

With continuing reference to FIGS. 4-7A and specific reference to FIGS.8A-8D, one or more methods of installing and/or removing assembly 100from a pump fluid end will now be described. These methods can includean initial installation in a fluid end having no valve cover lock systemand/or replacement of an existing valve cover lock assembly, such as aconventional lock assembly, one or more of the systems disclosed herein,or another valve cover lock, whether now known or later developed. In atleast one embodiment, a fluid end module 300 can include a poppet 128slideably disposed in a fluid path 110, which can be or include a boreor cylinder, for selectively allowing fluid to move along the fluid pathduring pumping. Poppet 128 can be coupled to one or more other pumpcomponents, such as valve guide 126 or other parts for supporting valvemovement or operation, which can include being coupled to valve cover106, directly or indirectly, in whole or in part. Valve cover 106 can bedisposed at least partially within fluid path 110 and/or valve coveropening 112, which can include being at least partially sealinglycoupled with or seated upon opening 112, or a structure about opening112, such as valve cover seat 158. In at least one embodiment, ring 102can be coupled to fluid end module 300, such as to surface 302, andvalve cover 106 can be passed through ring 102 and into opening 112.However, this need not be the case, and alternatively, or collectively,valve cover 106 and/or other pump components can be installed in fluidend module 300 and ring 102 can thereafter be coupled to fluid endmodule 300. As shown in FIGS. 8A-8D for illustrative purposes, ring 102can be coupled to fluid end module 300 with one or more fasteners 116 orin another appropriate manner, which can include the use of welding,adhesives, unitary formation and so forth, whether separately or incombination, in whole or in part. Valve cover stud 124 can be disposedat least partially within opening 114 of ring 102, such as for couplingwith one or more other components of assembly 100. Opening 114 can, butneed not, include at least a portion having a larger dimension or areathan valve cover opening 112, such as a portion proximal to or definedby first end 102 a of ring 102, which can provide for a rim 304, such asa border or landing, between valve cover opening 112 and ring 102.

Insert 104 can be inserted or otherwise disposed at least partiallywithin opening 114 of ring 102 and placed against valve cover 106, whichcan include being placed in contact with cover 106 directly orindirectly with one or more intermediate structures (e.g., gaskets,plates or other supports) there between, separately or in combination,in whole or in part. Segments 140 of insert 104 can be installedcollectively as a single unit or separately in numbers of one or more,whether with or without one or more retainers 144 or couplers 146. In atleast one embodiment, insert 104 can comprise a plurality of segments140 movably held together in an annular formation with one or moreretainers 144 and/or couplers 146 (if present), and can besimultaneously disposed within ring 102 as one component, such as in aretracted position wherein adjacent segments 140 may or may not touch,depending on the embodiment (see, e.g., FIG. 8B). First end 104 a ofinsert 104 can, but need not, be of a size equal to or less than that ofvalve cover 106, and in at least one embodiment can be larger than valvecover 106 so as to contact or potentially contact rim 304, whether inone or more contracted or expanded arrangements.

As shown in FIG. 8C, cone 108 can be inserted or otherwise disposed atleast partially within opening 134 of insert 104, which can includedisposing at least a portion of exterior wall 149 of cone 108 in contactwith interior wall 130 of insert 104 or a portion thereof. In anembodiment wherein cone 108 and insert 104 comprise portions (whetherunitary of otherwise) separated or transitioned by steps 138, 151, whichis but one embodiment of many, one or more of the respective portions orsteps can, but need not, be placed in contact with one another uponinitial insertion of cone 108. Cone 108 can be inserted into opening 134and first end 108 a can contact or otherwise be disposed relative tovalve cover 106 or a portion thereof, such as valve cover stud 124. Forinstance, first end 108 a can be disposed about at least a portion ofstud 124, which can be disposed at least partially within opening 148 ofcone 108 and placed in contact with first end 150 a of cone nut 150.Cone 108 can be coupled to valve cover 106, such as by threading conenut 150 onto stud 124. Cone nut 150 can be progressively tightened tostud 124 (or another portion of valve cover 106), which can force cone108 and valve cover 106 toward fluid end module 300 (e.g., downwardly asshown in the example arrangement of FIGS. 8C and 8D). Additionally,exterior wall 149 of cone 108 can wholly or partially engage interiorwall 130 of insert 104 for wedging or otherwise moving segments 140 ofinsert 104 radially outwardly (relative to axis A) toward interior wall122 of ring 102, as indicated by the arrows in FIGS. 8C and 8D. In atleast one embodiment, cone 108 can apply force to insert 104 in both theradial and axial directions, which can include applying such forcessimultaneously.

As shown in FIG. 8D, cone 108 can move progressively closer to module300 and segments 140 can move progressively closer to ring 102 as cone108 is coupled to valve cover 106, such as by coupling cone nut 150 tovalve cover stud 124. Furthermore, one or more couplers 136 a, 136 b ofinsert 104 can engage or otherwise couple to one or more couplers 122 a,122 b of ring 102, such as to corresponding couplers, depending on whichof the respective couplers are present. For example, in the embodimentof FIGS. 8C and 8D shown for illustrative purposes, which is but oneembodiment of many, each of ring 102 and insert 104 can include an arrayor other plurality of male and female couplers 122 a, 122 b and 136 a,136 b, respectively, and, for example, ring 102 and insert 104 cancollectively include sets of corresponding couplers that couple with oneanother as insert 104 expands into ring 102 or, more specifically, intocontact with interior wall 122 of ring 102. However, this need not bethe case, and alternative arrangements are possible, as will beunderstood by one of ordinary skill in the art having the benefits ofthe present disclosure. For example, insert 104 can include one or moremale couplers and ring 102 can include one or more female couplers, orvice versa, ring 102 and insert 104 can have equal numbers of couplersor different numbers of couplers, whether as between one another or asbetween male and female couplers on one component or the other.

Assembly 100 can include one or more locked positions, which can includea fully locked position (see, e.g., FIG. 4), such as a position whereincone 108 is coupled to insert 104, and couplers 122, 136 are coupled,sufficiently to at least partially limit or prevent axial movement ofvalve cover 106 away from module 300 or valve cover opening 112 duringpumping operations. As another example, a fully locked position caninclude a position or coupling sufficient to at least partially resistor prevent cone nut 150 from loosening or cone 108 from retracting, suchas due to vibrations or other forces experienced during pumping. Whenassembly 100 is in a locked position, whether a fully locked orotherwise locked position, at least a portion of one or more systemcomponents, such as cone 108 or cone nut 150, can, but need not,protrude from opening 134 of insert 104 and/or opening 114 of ring 102.Similarly, cone nut 150 can, but need not, be fully seated on stud 124(if present) and cone 108 can, but need not, directly or indirectlycontact valve cover 106. As other examples, cone 108 can at leastpartially protrude from insert 104, and insert 104 can at leastpartially protrude from ring 102. In at least one embodiment, insert104, such as second end 104 b, can include one or more structures forgripping or holding insert 104 during insertion or removal of insert 104from ring 102, such as, for example, a rim 160 or groove 162 (see FIG.7C).

With continuing reference to FIGS. 4-8D and specific reference to FIGS.9 and 10, assembly 100 can include couplers 122 a, 122 b and 136 a, 136b, having one or more of many different profiles for coupling with oneanother. Similarly, assembly 100 can include a cone 108 and insert 104having one or more of many different wall profiles for coupling with oneanother. Such profiles can be uniform along all or a portion of eachcomponent, or they can differ. As shown for exemplary purposes in FIG.9, in at least one embodiment, couplers 122, 136 can have a truncatedV-shaped profile or cross-sectional shape with a taper or angle a of22.5 degrees or about 22.5 degrees. However, this need not be the caseand alternatively, or collectively, assembly 100 can include couplers122, 136 having other angles a, which can include angles of greater thanor less than 22.5 degrees, such as angles between 0 degrees and 90degrees (inclusive), separately or in combination, in whole or in part.In at least one embodiment, angle a can be or include an anglesufficient to provide for coupling of assembly 100 sufficiently to atleast partially withstand a force (such as an axial force) applied toinsert 104 during pumping, which can be any force according to anembodiment. As shown for exemplary purposes in FIGS. 9 and 10, in atleast one embodiment, one or more of interior walls 130, 149 of insert104 and cone 108, respectively, can have an angle b for coupling to oneanother. For example, angle b can, but need not, be or include a“locking” angle or taper, such as an angle of 6 degrees, about 6degrees, or less than 6 degrees. In at least one embodiment, angle b canbe 5 degrees or about 5 degrees, or 4 degrees or about 4 degrees. In atleast one embodiment, angle b can be an angle for creating a frictionalforce between insert 104 and cone 108 sufficient to at least partiallywithstand a force (such as an axial force) applied to insert 104 duringpumping, which can be any force according to an embodiment. As anotherexample, in at least one embodiment, angle b can be or include an anglewithin a range of approximately 0 degrees to approximately 45 degrees(inclusive), or within a range of approximately 1 degree toapproximately 20 degrees (inclusive). However, it should be understoodthat one or more mechanical advantages can differ among angles ofdifferent values. For instance, in at least one embodiment, relativelysmaller angles, such as an angle b of about 15 degrees or less, canresult in more desirable coupling forces than relatively larger angles.

As also shown for exemplary purposes in FIGS. 9 and 10, in at least oneembodiment, one or more of interior walls 130, 149 of insert 104 andcone 108, respectively, can have one or more steps 138, 151 with anangle c for coupling to one another. For example, angle c can, but neednot, be or include an angle or taper of 45 degrees or about 45 degrees.In at least one embodiment, angle c can be greater than or less than 45degrees, such as, for example, within a range of approximately 30degrees to approximately 60 degrees (inclusive), or as another example,within a range of approximately 0 degrees to approximately 90 degrees(inclusive). In an embodiment wherein a dimension of assembly 100allows, such as an axial or longitudinal dimension (e.g., an overalllength), angle c can, but need not, be greater than 45 degrees, whichcan result in a relatively longer (or otherwise larger) assembly ascompared to an embodiment having a lesser angle c. As another example,angle c can be less than 45 degrees, which can result in a relativelyshorter (or otherwise smaller) assembly as compared to an embodimenthaving a greater angle c.

Turning to unlocking of assembly 100, such as during servicing of a pumpor fluid end or replacing one or more pump components, the components ofassembly 100 can be uncoupled or removed from one another or from fluidend module 300 by generally reversing the steps described herein withregard to locking or installation of assembly 300. In at least oneembodiment, one or more retainers 144 (if present) can aid in retractingsegments 140 of insert 104 upon uncoupling, such as during or afterremoval of cone 108 or cone nut 150. For example, one or more retainers144 (if present) can bias one or more of segments 140 radially inwardly,which segments can be removed collectively, individually or otherwise.In at least one embodiment, one or more access ports 118 (if present)can aid in retracting segments 140 of insert 104 upon uncoupling, suchas by providing access to one or more segments 140 for applyinglubricant or other substances along the interface of insert 104 and ring102 or, as another example, by providing access to one or more segments140 for the application of force to the exterior thereof, such as aradially inward force that can be applied by a rod, punch or other tool.

As will be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art having thebenefits of the present disclosure, the torque or force that can beneeded to properly or fully tighten assembly 100 to a module 300 candepend on various embodiment-specific factors, such as, for example, theoperating pressure(s) of the pump, the type(s) of fluid(s) being pumpedand the size(s) and material(s) of the various components of the system,among others, which can be or include any factor or variable relevantfor a particular embodiment at hand, such as a commercial embodiment. Asan example, in at least one embodiment, which is but one of many,approximately 460-690 ft-lbs of torque can achieve approximately one toone and one-half times a preload for a 7500 PSI mud pump, which canexert approximately 250,000 to 350,000 pounds force on one or morecomponents, such as a valve cover, during operation. In such anembodiment, a valve cover lock assembly or system according to thepresent disclosure can be structured to withstand approximately fourtimes a static load applied during pumping, and a cone nut can includeone or more of a 1 7/16 inch hex drive and a ¾ inch square drive.However, this need not be the case and many other sizes and arrangementsare possible, including embodiments having none (or less than all) ofthe aforementioned characteristics.

The components and other features disclosed herein, such as ring 102,insert 104, segments 140 and cone 108, can be formed in any manner(s)and from any material(s) (e.g., plastic, metal, steel, stainless steel,composite and/or other material(s)) required or desired for a particularapplication or embodiment at hand, and can be made separately orcollectively, in whole or in part. One or more of the components can,but need not, be treated, such as by case hardening, heat treating oranother method for improving or changing the characteristics of amaterial. One or more of the components can, but need not, be made fromthe same material(s), in whole or part, and in at least one embodiment,the material(s) can differ from one component to another. For example,adjacent or other components can include materials of differinghardnesses or other characteristics (e.g., mechanical properties,chemical properties).

In at least one embodiment, a system for coupling with, securing,holding or otherwise supporting a valve cover, such as a valve coverlock system, valve lock, or valve cover lock assembly, can include oneor more components for coupling to a pump, such as to a fluid end, (orfluid end module), valve cover opening, bore, cylinder, flow path,inlet, outlet, or other portion of a pump, whether directly orindirectly, separately or in combination, in whole or in part. In atleast one embodiment, a system can include a support member, such as aring or base, having one or more openings or fluid paths, one or morewalls and one or more surfaces. A ring can be adapted to couple to amodule and can have an opening adapted to be in fluid communication withone or more openings in the pump, such as a valve cover opening. Asystem can include another member, such as an insert or head, which canhave one or more openings and which can comprise one or more segments,such as a plurality of segments or other portions, that can collectivelyform one or more walls or surfaces, such as interior walls and surfacesand exterior walls and surfaces, of the member. An insert or othermember can be disposed at least partially within an opening of one ormore other components, such as a ring. In at least one embodiment, asystem can include an actuator, such as a cone or wedge, having one ormore openings, such as an opening therein or there through, and one ormore walls, such as an interior wall and an exterior wall, and theactuator can be disposed at least partially within an opening of one ormore other components, such as an opening in an insert or ring. In atleast one embodiment, a system can include one or more couplers, such asa cone nut, for coupling one or more system components, which can bedisposed at least partially within an opening in or through one or moreother components, such as a cone or other actuator. A cone nut can haveone or more ends adapted to couple with one or more other components,such as a valve cover. In at least one embodiment, a system can includeone or more couplers or sets of couplers, and one or more componentscomprising one or more couplers. A wall of a ring can include one ormore couplers and an insert can include one or more couplers adapted tocouple with one or more of the couplers of the ring. A cone can beadapted to move in one or more directions relative to other componentsof the system, and can be adapted to move a plurality of segments in oneor more directions, such as radially outwardly or otherwise relative toa component or axis. A cone can be adapted to move in a direction untilone or more couplers are coupled. One or more couplers can be adapted toat least partially resist axial movement of one or more componentsrelative to one another or to another structure, such as when the one ormore couplers are in one or more coupled or locked positions.

In at least one embodiment, a system can include a valve cover coupledto an end of a coupler, and a coupler can be adapted to move a cone anda valve cover toward one another, such as when the coupler is tightened,rotated, or otherwise moved to a coupled position from one or more otherpositions. A system can include one or more components, such as a coneor insert, having walls or surfaces of differing shapes or sizes alongat least a portion of a dimension, which can include one or more taperedor otherwise angled walls or portions. In at least one embodiment, acone can have one or more tapered walls, such as a tapered exteriorwall, and an insert can have one or more tapered walls, such as anexterior wall, which walls can, but need not, be of the same or similargeometries. A tapered structure can, but need not, include one or moresteps or other angled transitions, such as between or along one or moresections, segments, lengths, interfaces or other portions of astructure. A taper or step can have one or more angles, such as anglesrelative to the horizontal, vertical or another direction or axis, whichcan be any angle for accomplishing a function of a component having ataper or step. In at least one embodiment, a system can include a conehaving a wall, and at least a portion of the wall can include a taper of6°, about 6°, less than 6° or greater than 6°. In at least oneembodiment, a system can include an insert having a wall, and at least aportion of the wall can include a taper of 6°, about 6°, less than 6° orgreater than 6°.

In at least one embodiment, a system can include a valve cover coupledto an end of a nut, such as a cone nut, one or more couplers can beadapted to at least partially resist axial movement of one or morecomponents, such as a valve cover, relative to one or more othercomponents, such as a pump, module or portion thereof, for example, whenone or more couplers are coupled. A system can include a valve cover,which can include a stud or other coupler adapted to couple to one ormore other components, such as to an end or other portion of a cone nut.A system can include a retainer, such as a cone nut retainer, coupled toa cone, and the retainer can have one or more openings and one or moreportions, such as ends, disposed relative to one or more othercomponents, such as a portion disposed at least partially within,through, near, below or above an opening in a retainer. In at least oneembodiment, a cone nut can be rotatably or otherwise moveably coupled toa cone, and can include one or more ends adapted to receive rotationalor other force or torque, such as from a tool. In at least oneembodiment, a system can include first, second and/or other couplers,which can include male and female mating structures or other couplingstructure(s), such as extensions, rims, rings, splines, grooves,openings, slots, tongues, pins, blocks, receivers, teeth, rods,openings, profiles, or other couplers, separately or in combination, inany number, in whole or in part. In at least one embodiment, one or morecouplers can include one or more extensions and one or more grooves,such as structures and spaces or openings adapted to mate, interface,fit or otherwise couple with one another, removably, temporarily,forcibly, freely, tightly, loosely, or otherwise. In at least oneembodiment, a system can include one or more couplers having any of aplurality of shapes, sizes, geometries, cross-sections or profiles, suchas V-shaped, truncated V-shaped, triangular, round, curved, arced,oblong, chamfered, buttress-shaped, square, spherical, polygonal, orotherwise-shaped. In at least one embodiment, a system can include oneor more couplers or portions having one or more tapers, such as a taperor angle of 22.5°, about 22.5°, less than 22.5° or more than 22.5°,separately or in combination, in whole or in part.

In at least one embodiment, a system can include a ring having aportion, such as a body having one or more walls, with one or more holesor other openings therein or there through, such as from an interiorwall to an exterior wall. A system can include an insert having aplurality of segments or other portions, which can include two or moresegments, and which can include one or more pairs or sets of adjacent orotherwise associated segments, such as two or more segments movablycoupled to one another, such as slideably, expandably, retractably,rotatably, or otherwise. In at least one embodiment, two or moresegments can be coupled with one or more couplers, which can include oneor more dowels and one or more openings adapted to receive at least aportion of a dowel, such as slideably or by way of a clearance fit. Asystem can include one or more retainers, such as a spring, band orother biasing device, and a plurality of segments can be coupled to oneanother with one or more retainers. In at least one embodiment, one ormore biasing devices can be elastic, and can be adapted to bias one ormore segments in one or more directions, such as radially inwardly ortoward one or more positions wherein segments may be close to oneanother, in contact with one another, spaced from one another, coupledto one another, proximal to one another, distal from one another, orotherwise disposed relative to one another.

A system can include a cone, such as a cone having one or more taperedor angled portions, which can include one or more steps or transitions.In at least one embodiment, a system can include a cone or othercomponent, such as an insert, having a wall or surface with a step ortaper at an angle of 45°, about 45°, less than 45° or more than 45°,separately or in combination, in whole or in part. For example, a systemcan include a cone having an exterior wall including two or moresections or portions, which can include a step between portions, such asa step disposed at an angle of 45° or about 45°, which can include anangle relative to horizontal, vertical or another direction. As anotherexample, a system can include an insert having a wall, such as aninterior wall, including two or more sections or portions, which caninclude a step between portions, such as a step disposed at an angle of45° or about 45°, which can include an angle relative to horizontal,vertical or another direction. In at least one embodiment, a cone,insert or other component of a system can include ends or other portionsof different sizes or shapes, such as one end or portion with a firstinternal, external or other dimension, and another end or portion with asecond internal, external or other dimension different from the firstdimension(s), in whole or in part. In at least one embodiment, a systemcan include two or more segments or portions adapted to optionally moveradially inwardly and outwardly relative to an axis, such as a centrallongitudinal or other axis of one or more components, which can includebeing adapted to move from, to, among or between one or more contractedpositions and one or more expanded positions, or one or more lockedpositions, unlocked positions, partially locked positions, or partiallyunlocked positions. In at least one embodiment, a system can include acone nut adapted to couple with a stud of a valve cover, a cone nuthaving at least one of a male coupler and a female coupler, a cone nutadapted to couple with a tool, such as a tightening or loosening tool,and a valve cover stud adapted to couple to a cone nut.

In at least one embodiment, a fluid end or fluid end module can includea body and one or more valve cover lock systems or assemblies accordingto the present disclosure, which can be or include any embodiment(s) ofa valve cover lock system or assembly according to the disclosure,separately or in combination, in whole or in part. In at least oneembodiment, a mud pump can include a body and one or more valve coverlock systems or assemblies according to the present disclosure, whichcan be or include any embodiment(s) of a valve cover lock system orassembly according to the disclosure, separately or in combination, inwhole or in part. In at least one embodiment, a pump can include a bodyand one or more valve cover lock systems or assemblies according to thepresent disclosure, which can be or include any embodiment(s) of a valvecover lock system or assembly according to the disclosure, separately orin combination, in whole or in part. In at least one embodiment, a wellsystem can include a body and one or more valve cover lock systems orassemblies according to the present disclosure, which can be or includeany embodiment(s) of a valve cover lock system or assembly according tothe disclosure, separately or in combination, in whole or in part. In atleast one embodiment, a method can include coupling one or more valvecover lock systems or assemblies according to the present disclosure toa fluid end, fluid end module, pump or well system, which can includecoupling any embodiment(s) of a valve cover lock system or assemblyaccording to the disclosure, separately or in combination, in whole orin part, including in any practical, desirable or mechanically feasiblemanner, which can be any manner according to an embodiment, such as acommercial embodiment. In at least one embodiment, a method can includeany of coupling a ring to a pump or portion thereof, coupling an insertto the ring, coupling a cone to the insert, moving the cone, moving theinsert, moving one or more segments of an insert, coupling one or morecouplers, coupling a an insert to a ring, coupling one or more segmentsto a ring, moving at least a portion of an insert into a couplingengagement with a ring, coupling a cone to a pump, coupling a cone to avalve cover, and coupling a valve cover in one or more positions forsupporting pumping operations.

In at least one embodiment, a valve cover lock assembly for a pumphaving a fluid end module can include a ring adapted to couple to themodule, an insert comprising a plurality of segments, and a cone adaptedto couple with the insert, wherein the ring comprises a first couplerand the insert comprises a second coupler configured to couple with thefirst coupler, wherein the cone is configured to move one or more of theplurality of segments when the cone is moved, and wherein the first andsecond couplers are adapted to at least partially resist movement of theinsert. In at least one embodiment, a pump can have a valve cover lockassembly as described herein. In at least one embodiment, a fluid endcan have a valve cover lock assembly as described herein. In at leastone embodiment, a fluid end module can have a valve cover lock assemblyas described herein. In at least one embodiment, a method of locking avalve cover can include coupling a ring to a valve cover opening,disposing an insert comprising a plurality of segments at leastpartially within the ring, coupling an actuator to the insert, andcoupling the insert to the ring.

Other and further embodiments utilizing one or more aspects of thesystems and methods described herein can be devised without departingfrom the spirit of Applicant's disclosure. For example, the systems andmethods disclosed herein can be used alone or to form one or more partsof other valves, locks, valve components and/or fluid control systems,such as pumps or fluid ends. Further, the various methods andembodiments of the valve cover locks can be included in combination witheach other to produce variations of the disclosed methods andembodiments. Discussion of singular elements can include plural elementsand vice-versa. References to at least one item followed by a referenceto the item can include one or more items. Also, various aspects of theembodiments can be used in conjunction with each other to accomplish theunderstood goals of the disclosure.

Unless the context requires otherwise, the words “comprise,” “include,”and “has” (including variations and conjugations thereof, such as“comprises,” “including,” “have” and so forth) should be understood toimply the inclusion of at least the stated element or step or group ofelements or steps or equivalents thereof, and not the exclusion of agreater numerical quantity or any other element or step or group ofelements or steps or equivalents thereof. The devices, apparatuses andsystems can be used in a number of directions and orientations. Theorder of steps can occur in a variety of sequences unless otherwisespecifically limited. The various steps described herein can be combinedwith other steps, interlineated with the stated steps, and/or split intomultiple steps. Similarly, elements have been described functionally andcan be embodied as separate components and/or can be combined intocomponents having multiple functions.

The embodiments have been described in the context of preferred andother embodiments and not every embodiment of Applicant's disclosure hasbeen described. Obvious modifications and alterations to the describedembodiments are available to those of ordinary skill in the art havingthe benefits of the present disclosure. The disclosed and undisclosedembodiments are not intended to limit or restrict the scope orapplicability of Applicant's disclosures, but rather, in conformity withthe patent laws, Applicant intends to fully protect all suchmodifications and improvements that come within the scope or range ofequivalents of the claims.

1-20. (canceled)
 21. A lock assembly for sealing a fluid opening of abore in a body, the lock assembly comprising: an insert having anopening there through and comprising a plurality of segments, aninterior wall and an exterior wall, wherein the insert is configured tobe disposed at least partially within an opening in a ring; a conehaving an opening there through and an exterior wall, wherein the coneis configured to be disposed at least partially within the openingthrough the insert; and a cone nut configured to be disposed at leastpartially within the opening through the cone, the cone nut having afirst end adapted to couple with a cover for the fluid opening; whereinthe exterior wall of the insert comprises one or more couplersconfigured to couple with the ring; wherein the cone is configured tomove at least one of the plurality of segments of the insert radiallyoutwardly when the cone is moved in a first direction relative to theinsert; and wherein the one or more couplers are adapted to at leastpartially resist axial movement of the insert relative to the ring whenthe one or more couplers are coupled with the ring.
 22. The assembly ofclaim 21, further comprising a ring, wherein the ring is configured tobe coupled to the body with an opening in the ring disposed in fluidcommunication with the fluid opening.
 23. The assembly of claim 21,further comprising a cover coupled to the first end of the cone nut,wherein the cone nut is configured to move the cone and cover toward oneanother when the cone nut is tightened.
 24. The assembly of claim 21,wherein at least a portion of the exterior wall of the cone is of astepped taper.
 25. The assembly of claim 21, wherein at least a portionof the interior wall of the insert is of a stepped taper.
 26. Theassembly of claim 21, wherein at least a portion of the exterior wall ofthe cone comprises a taper of 6°, about 6° or less than 6°.
 27. Theassembly of claim 21, wherein at least a portion of the interior wall ofthe insert comprises a taper of 6°, about 6° or less than 6°.
 28. Theassembly of claim 21, further comprising a cover coupled to the firstend of the cone nut, and wherein the one or more couplers are adapted toat least partially resist axial movement of the cover relative to thefluid opening when the one or more couplers are coupled with the ring.29. The assembly of claim 21, further comprising a cone nut retainercoupled to the cone, the cone nut retainer having an opening therethrough.
 30. The assembly of claim 29, wherein the cone nut has a secondend disposed at least partially within the opening through the cone nutretainer.
 31. The assembly of claim 21, wherein the one or more couplerscomprise at least one of one or more extensions, one or more grooves anda combination thereof.
 32. The assembly of claim 31, wherein the one ormore couplers comprise at least one extension and at least one groovehaving cross-sectional profiles that are V-shaped, truncated V-shaped orbuttress-shaped.
 33. The assembly of claim 32, wherein the one or morecouplers comprise one or more extensions or one or more grooves having ataper of 22.5° or about 22.5°.
 34. The assembly of claim 22, wherein thering further comprises an interior wall, an exterior wall and one ormore through holes from the interior wall to the exterior wall.
 35. Theassembly of claim 21, wherein the plurality of segments comprises threeor more segments.
 36. The assembly of claim 21, wherein at least one ofthe plurality of segments is movably coupled to an adjacent one of theplurality of segments.
 37. The assembly of claim 21, further comprisinga dowel coupled to at least one of the plurality of segments, andwherein at least one of the plurality of segments includes an openingconfigured to slideably receive at least a portion of the dowel.
 38. Theassembly of claim 21, wherein the plurality of segments is coupledtogether with one or more elastic biasing devices configured to bias theplurality of segments radially inwardly.
 39. The assembly of claim 21,wherein each of the exterior wall of the cone and the interior wall ofthe insert comprises two tapered sections having a step there between,the step being disposed at an angle of 45° or about 45°.
 40. Theassembly of claim 21, further comprising a cover adapted to couple tothe cone nut, wherein the first end of the cone nut is adapted to couplewith a threaded portion of the cover.